US Defence Chief Hegseth at Shangri-La Dialogue: US pledges Indo-Pacific first, slams China’s regional moves

SINGAPORE: In an address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth underscored Washington’s unwavering commitment to the Indo-Pacific, vowing to deter China’s ambitions and strengthen regional partnerships.    “We are not here to pressure other countries to adopt our politics or ideology, we respect you and your traditions and we want to work with you where our shared interests align,” Hegseth told delegates, including defence ministers and security officials from across Asia.

Hegseth reiterated that the US is determined to maintain a robust military presence in the region while empowering allies to take greater responsibility for their own security.

7 Key takeaways from Hegseth’s speech: 

1. Indo-Pacific is America’s priority    Secretary Hegseth stated the US is shifting more focus to Asia, while urging European allies to bolster their own defences.   

2. Partnership over preaching    The Secretary emphasised the US does not seek to impose ideology or lecture on issues like climate change, instead prioritising partnerships built on mutual respect.   

3. China’s ambitions confronted    Hegseth warned that China is seeking to become the region’s hegemonic power through military expansion and intimidation, vowing that the US “will not be pushed out.”   

4. South China Sea tensions from US perspective    He highlighted China’s aggressive tactics — from ship collisions to water cannon attacks — as direct challenges to regional stability.   

5. Economic leverage warning    Hegseth cautioned Asian nations about deepening economic ties with China, warning that Beijing uses trade dependence as leverage during crises.   

6. Taiwan: Peace through strength    “China will not invade Taiwan on President Trump’s watch,” he said. The US is bolstering deterrence alongside allies to maintain peace.   

7. Three-Point Defence Strategy    

Forward force posture – Deploying NMESIS anti-ship missiles to the Philippines, upgrading bases in Japan and Australia.    
Empowering allies – Training with India, Quad logistics, and maritime security initiatives.    
Industrial resilience – Building local repair capabilities, like P-8 radar systems in Australia, and co-producing equipment with India.

Hegseth also urged Asian allies to match Europe’s increasing defence spending, noting that “it is hard to believe I can say this – but Asian allies and partners should look to Europe as a new-found example.” NATO members, including Germany, have pledged to spend 5% of GDP on defence, he said.   Bottom line?  The US message at the Shangri-La Dialogue was unambiguous — America is here to stay in the Indo-Pacific, urging allies to invest more in defence and warning of the risks posed by China’s rising power.